A fire plate grill combines rustic campfire vibes with modern grilling technology – making your outdoor cooking experience a true highlight.
But how does grilling on a hot plate actually work? What role do temperature zones play? And what makes the plancha so versatile?
In this article, you’ll learn why the fire plate grill offers more than a traditional grate, how to use it optimally – and what you should pay attention to when grilling, maintaining, and enjoying it.

What is a fire plate grill?
A fire plate grill consists of a solid, round steel plate with a central opening that sits over a fire pit. The fire burns in the middle, heating the plate from the inside out—no grill grate or pan needed.
Some models—like our NORLIVA Skara Plancha—have a slight inward slope, allowing juices to drain inward. This ensures clean, safe, and flavorful grilling—without grease fires or excess smoke.

The art of heat zones
One of the biggest highlights of the fire plate grill: the natural temperature zones.
- Inner zone (~300 °C):
Perfect for searing meat, tofu, or crisp vegetables. - Middle zone (~200 °C):
Ideal for burgers, fish, or fried eggs. - Outer zone (~120 °C):
For keeping food warm, slow cooking, or for bread and flatbreads.
With a bit of practice, you’ll learn to move your food around the grill according to the temperature—making cooking interactive and creative.
Tips for your first plancha night
Ready to get started but not sure how? Don’t worry—with a few simple tricks, your first grilling session on the fire plate is guaranteed to be a success. Here are the most important basics for a stress-free and delicious outdoor experience.
Season the plate + preheat well
- Before first use, rub the plate with vegetable oil (not olive oil) and season it
- Preheat for 20–30 minutes
Utilize zones
Center = hot,
Edge = gentle cooking
Use a spatula instead of tongs
Ideal for turning and cleaning
Use dry hardwood such as beech or oak
For optimal heat and minimal smoke
Cleaning and Care
After use, clean with a scraper and apply a light layer of oil for protection.

Why grill with a Plancha?
🔥 More flavor
Grilling over an open wood fire gives your food a unique, rustic smoky taste.
🌿 Healthy and low-fat
Thanks to the non-stick coating, you hardly need any oil. Perfect for healthy outdoor cooking.
👨👩👧👦 Shared experience
The round plate invites everyone to grill together – like a campfire with a cooking function.
🥓 Pure variety
From steaks and vegetables to pancakes – the possibilities are almost endless.
Conclusion: Grilling with character
The fire plate grill is more than just a grill—it’s a stage for culinary creativity. Whether you’re a meat lover, prefer grilling vegetarian dishes, or want to bake flatbreads right on the plate: With clever heat zones and the authentic fire experience, your barbecue night will become an event.
👉 Tip: Our NORLIVA fire plates with an 80 cm diameter fit perfectly on the Skara fire pits – for your personal outdoor cooking experience in style.